While it does not work to directly relax tense skeletal muscle, Soma is a centrally acting musculoskeletal relaxant. Rather, it’s sedative effects decrease the severe muscle spasm.
Usually, Soma is prescribed as just one component of a pain-management regimen, which may also include rest, physical therapy and other strategies to help alleviate pain associated with severe musculoskeletal conditions. Soma may be contraindicated in those suffering from acute porphyria or who are allergic to carisoprodol or meprobamate related compounds.
Soma has the risk of causing dependence as well as a number of side effects. Most importantly, patients should realize that Soma has sedative properties which may make it hazardous for the user to drive or operate other machinery. Until the user can evaluate the full effect of this medication on his/her performance, care should be taken when doing these things.
There is definitely a chance of becoming dependent on Soma. Extreme caution should be exercised when prescribing Soma for people who have abused substances in the past. Extreme weakness, dizziness, temporary vision loss, agitation, confusion and disorientation are other side effects that may occur with use of this drug. Symptoms usually vanish within a few hours, but the patient may have to stay in the hospital for a short time to help manage the effects.
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